The National People’s Party (NPP), Nagaland State, solemnly observed the 10th death anniversary of its founder, late Purno Agitok Sangma, on March 4 at the State NPP Headquarters, H/No. 151, Bank Colony, Walford Road, Dimapur.
Late Purno Agitok Sangma, founder of NPP and former Speaker of the Lok Sabha, was remembered as one of the tallest leaders from North East India and a visionary tribal statesman whose legacy continues to inspire generations across the nation.
The programme was chaired by Rosy Yanthan, Vice President, NPP Nagaland. Invocation was offered by Khehoshe Sema, Secretary, NPP Nagaland.
Shri K. James Vizo, Vice President & Chief Spokesperson, NPP Nagaland, delivered a heartfelt tribute highlighting the remarkable life journey of Late PA Sangma — from humble beginnings in West Garo Hills, Meghalaya, to becoming Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Union Minister holding key portfolios, and most notably, Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1996 to 1998.
In his address, Vizo emphasized that as Speaker during a politically turbulent period marked by coalition instability, PA Sangma upheld parliamentary democracy with neutrality, firmness, and dignity. He ensured fairness to both the ruling party and opposition, strengthened discipline in the House, and elevated the stature of the Speaker’s office. His tenure symbolized inclusiveness, particularly as a tribal leader from the North East presiding over one of the highest constitutional institutions of India.
Vizo also noted that the founding of the National People’s Party in 2013 reflected his farsighted vision to create a party rooted in regional pride yet national in outlook.
Today, NPP’s growth as a recognized national party stands as a testament to his enduring legacy.
Referring to recent political developments, Vizo acknowledged that two councilors had left the party due to political compulsion. While respecting individual decisions, he reaffirmed that the strength of the party lies in its ideology, disciplined cadre, and grassroots workers.
“Individuals may come and go, but the mission and principles of the party remain steadfast,” he stated, urging party workers to remain united, organized, and committed to the ideals of transparency, accountability, and service.
In his message on the occasion, A Nyamnyei Konyak, MLA, State President, NPP Nagaland, stated that late Purno Agitok Sangma was not merely a political leader but a guiding force for the people of the North East. He remarked that Sangma’s life exemplified integrity, courage, and unwavering commitment to democratic values.
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Konyak called upon party workers to draw inspiration from the founder’s humility and dedication, and to strengthen the party with unity, discipline, and renewed determination.
He further emphasized that the best tribute to late PA Sangma would be to continue serving the people selflessly and to uphold the core principles upon which the National People’s Party was founded.
The programme concluded with a Mass Prayer, attended by party leaders, office bearers, and well-wishers, who collectively reaffirmed their commitment to uphold the ideals and principles cherished by the late leader.
The NPP Nagaland reiterated its resolve to strengthen the organization across the state and to carry forward the vision of late PA Sangma with unity and determination.
In the meanwhile, two delegates from NPP Nagaland —K James Vizo, Vice President & Chief Spokesperson, and Kikokul John Kulnu, State Executive Member — will represent the NPP Nagaland State Unit at the One-Day Capacity Building Training Programme (CBT) scheduled to be held on March 7 at the NPP National Headquarters, Shillong.
